In a decisive move to combat escalating regional arms trafficking, Barbados Customs and Excise has launched an intensive training program for 20 officers to enhance firearms detection capabilities. The five-day National Training on Small Arms Identification and Illicit Trafficking Methods, conducted in partnership with the World Customs Organization (WCO), represents a strategic escalation in border security measures amid growing concerns about transnational weapon flows.
Acting Comptroller of Customs Cheryl-Ann Cumberbatch emphasized the program’s critical timing, stating: ‘The current surge in firearm usage demands enhanced detection and interdiction capabilities. This training directly addresses our operational needs while strengthening our frontline defense against illicit weapons trafficking.’
The curriculum, delivered through WCO’s Project BOLT initiative, marks the first English-speaking Caribbean deployment of regionally certified trainers. Participants will undergo comprehensive theoretical and practical instruction covering international legal frameworks, concealment methodologies, risk assessment protocols, and evidence handling procedures for intercepted firearms.
Duncan Potter, WCO Project BOLT coordinator, characterized the initiative as ‘a fundamental advancement for Barbados’ security infrastructure,’ noting the organization’s commitment to ‘delivering capacity-building measures that empower member states to protect societal safety.’
The training aligns with the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap—a multinational strategy Barbados has endorsed to reduce regional weapons trafficking. Comptroller Cumberbatch highlighted the nexus between illegal firearms and public safety, noting: ‘This scourge has negatively impacted our borders and contributed to increased gun violence. As border enforcement agents, we play a pivotal role in intercepting these threats to national security.’
The program leverages existing collaboration between customs authorities and the Barbados Police Service, emphasizing intelligence-sharing and coordinated enforcement actions. Project BOLT operates through a tripartite partnership between WCO, CARICOM’s Implementation Agency for Crime and Security, and the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.